This week my husband and 2 teenage sons traveled to Washington, DC with our parish to participate in the annual March for Life. The overarching theme for this year's walk was Adoption, a topic that is very near and dear to our hearts, making their being there (and each for their first time), even more special.

Faith, 8, and I stayed behind and enjoyed our mommy/daughter bonding time. I also enjoyed some HUGE successes with things I am generally either incredible anxious over as I do them or avoid altogether out of fear.

I drove in the snow. A lot of snow actually. As a native New Englander this should surely NOT be on a list of current triumphs - unless I was making the list back when I was 16! However, for the last 29 years I have found every reason to avoid tackling driving in the snow. I even made my husband purchase a 4-wheel drive car because I was convinced that would give me confidence to drive in the snow, yet I still continued to circumvent any opportunity to do so. The greatest success in this small success was I did it without anxiety!

Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Phil 4:6

2. I stayed home alone. For 2 nights. And I was not afraid. Now again, if this was a list for a 16 year old girl it makes sense to be a victory, but it seems a little out of sync for a (let's say more mature) girl. For many years if my husband, Kevin had to be out of town for the night, I'd invite people to stay with me - my sister, a friend, even on occasion other friend's kids. The times I've had no choice, and stayed home alone without company I've do so deathly afraid. I'd be up all night long in a state of pure panic - though the upside - it was some powerful prayer time! This week was different, I actually enjoyed the quiet and the solitude, and did not once worry about what 'could' or what 'might' happen, I just prayed and trusted.

Small victories! Yea! I too find there are times when I can allow fear to overwhelm me, especially about "being alone." It comes to my mind often as there are not many in my family and once my son (who by the way is adopted!) goes - that's it, just me. Love your reminder - "When I am afraid, I will trust in you." Amen.

Reply

Allison Gingras

3/7/2014 10:51:10 pm

Yeah for adopted kids :)) and their hero biological moms that gave us the opportunity to be Moms! The Disciples sent out two by two, we are never meant to be alone. God always provides that companion for the journey!! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!!!

Reply

Hubby

1/23/2014 05:27:06 am

So proud :)

Reply

Leave a Reply.

Allison Gingras

is a Catholic speaker, blogger, podcaster and writer. She believes that the Grace of God received through Prayer, Sacrament, and Scripture is the easiest and best way to grow in our faith.